Bert Berns

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  • Year:
    2016
  • Inducted by:
    Steven Van Zandt (E Street Band)
  • Category:
    Ahmet Ertegun Award
bert_berns

Introduction

Life’s too short not to be a music industry mogul.

Or so believed Bert Berns, co-founder of Bang Records, songwriter of “Twist and Shout” and the man who discovered Van Morrison. His work may tragically have been cut short, but the hits he made have tremendous staying power.

Hall of Fame Essay

2016

Joel Selvin

Bert Berns can’t be easily explained in a few words.

He was a consummate record man who died at age 38 in 1967, after seven years in the record business. He left behind a wife, three small children, and many bereaved friends and associates who loved and looked up to him.

He also left behind a number of angry enemies. Some of them remain pissed to this day.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Program Cover 2016
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incredible songwriter, producer, and label boss
Stevie Van Zandt

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Gallery

Photography: Getty/WireImage